Wetlands are places inundated, on a temporary or permanent basis, with fresh or saline water. The water is usually shallow and may be slow moving or stationary.
Wetlands are important for the conservation of biodiversity. They provide vital habitat for many species of plants, birds, fish, amphibians and other aquatic life. Wetlands are also good filters of pollutants and reduce the impact and severity of floods.
Wetlands often have significant links to the traditional lifestyle and beliefs of Aboriginal people. They are also often associated with the history of European settlement in Australia.
The use of structures such as weirs along the river have ensured that water is always available for use in our homes and for irrigation.
This has led however to a decline in the health of the river and our wetlands. Native fish, plant and animal species are in decline, wetlands have either dried up or are permanently flooded, introduced species such as carp have increased in number, and soils have become saline.
Dying Red Gum Photo by Tracey Steggles (River Murray Catchment Water Management Board)
Lagoon In Flood Photo by Paul Stribley
(Berri-Barmera Local Action Planning)
The Overland Corner wetland and floodplain cover an area of 283 hectares. Like other wetlands along the River Murray its health is in decline as a result of river regulation and increased water diversions, and the lower frequency and duration of flooding.
There has been a loss of vegetation diversity and habitat, soils have become saline, River Red Gums are dying, and there is a decrease in the number of waterfowl present.
The combined efforts of the Overland Corner Branch of the National Trust, SA Water, Berri-Barmera Local Action Planning Group (www.bblap.org.au), River Murray Catchment Water Management Board (www.rivermurray.sa.gov.au/work/wetland.html), Natural Heritage Trust, Bundaberg Bush Fund and Channel 9 are aiming to make the Overland Corner Wetland healthier and more diverse.
Some of the Wetland Conservation Project activities include:
Using a flow control structure to increase and vary the duration and frequency of flooding
Using fish screens to stop adult Carp from entering the wetland
Controlling weeds and pest animals
Monitoring and assessing changes in plant and animal diversity over time
Flow Control StructurePhoto by Paul Stribley (Berri-Barmera Local Action Planning)
For more information contact the Adelaide Office of the National Trust of South Australia on (08) 8212 1133 or the Berri Barmera Local Action Planning office on (08) 8582 1922.
SA Water
Channel 9
Natural Heritage Trust
River Murray Catchment Water Management Board
Berri-Barmera Local Action Planning Group
Bundaberg Rum Bush Fund
Overland Corner Branch (National Trust)
Wetland Care Australia
Coromandel Valley Branch (National Trust)
Holdfast Bay Branch (National Trust)
Private landowners and neighbours
